I would like to welcome everyone to Graham High School's production of NEWSIES! I have been overwhelmed by the amount of help I've received from so many different people who volunteer their time, efforts, talents, costumes, and support to help make sure this production of Newsies is wonderful! I must first thank Mrs. Tara Bodey and Paul Bissler for being a great team, and starting rehearsals for the first few weeks while I was on maternity leave. I do not know what I would do without their help and support! Another thank-you goes to Katie Setty for running all donations, ticket sales and reserved seating.
Our road to this production has been a rough one! I first requested to perform Newsies in 2019, but was not able to secure the rights from the production company. Then after securing the rights in 2020, we were shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic after 9 weeks of rehearsal. We were so close! It means so much to all of us that we are finally able to perform this musical for you!
I am also greatly appreciative of the parents and families of cast members who have volunteered their time helping with costumes, donating props, helping with sets, donating food and water, and just willing to help out in anyway possible. The administration, custodial staff, and teaching staff here at GLS have been so
supportive of this production.Their support of the arts in our community is essential and greatly appreciated. We have several GHS students who are helping with the production by running cameras and spot lights. I am very thankful for their volunteered time and efforts!
Our beautiful NEWSIES set is rented from Elida High School. I was connected with Graham Alum, Rob Vetters, who was able to bring a team to Graham to construct our set. We have been so thankful to have this awesome set for this show!
Putting on a musical takes its toll on family time. This year has been especially challenging, as we have a new and beautiful 6 month old daughter. Returning back to work and straight into musical season has been difficult, but also very rewarding. I would like to give my warmest thanks to my husband, Patrick and to my three daughters, Lily, Lucy and baby Joy, who have been so patient with me during the many hours of rehearsal and preparation. I am also so appreciative of my parents who have been instrumental in making sure that I am able to attend rehearsals while they take care of the girls.
Finally, I would like to extended my sincerest thanks to my wonderful students and cast members. I am so blessed to work with such an amazing group of talented young people. Your hard work is about to pay off!
